Some University of Akron students decided to end their semester with tiki torches, hula skirts, and a giant beach ball.

These students attended the Zips Programming Network’s (ZPN) Hawaiian Festival in the Student Union on April 29.

The event, ZPN’s last of the semester, featured Hawaiian-themed games, pineapple and coconut refreshments, music, and raffle prize packs.

Event organizer and ZPN Late Night Chair AJ Ball said this event was different because it was more interactive and engaging than other events.

“Instead of just sitting in the audience, this event lets everyone get more involved,” Ball said. “It’s a great way to unwind and get away from studying, which is important for everyone to stay level-headed with finals coming up.”

Those who attended the event were each given a luau lei. Students could compete against each other at the four Hawaiian-themed games. The winners of these games were awarded another luau lei which they could later turn in for raffle tickets. The raffle tickets could be used to enter to win one of three prize packages.

UA students also participated in pass the coconut (hot potato), crab soccer, musical beach towels (musical chairs), and got a chance to compete in a hula hoop contest. With the luau leis they won, they could enter the raffles. The raffle prizes included small beach balls, beach hats, a giant beach ball, and a shark costume.

“Coming to events like this gives you a chance to meet people, get involved, and more importantly have fun,” said freshman Dahmere Epperson. “It’s a great way to end the year.”

The event was meant to be held in Coleman Common, where it would have been possible to show the movie “50 First Dates” as well. The festival was moved inside to the SU market area due to weather.